Roadshow: Tips on remaining safe in a carjacking attempt

Q In lieu of the fatal shooting at a 7-Eleven store in San Jose recently in an apparent carjacking attempt, how about a reminder on how not to be a victim of carjacking? What tips do police offer?

Gary Manazores

San Jose

A This is tough because conditions can vary so much from one incident to another. But here are some suggestions from San Jose police.

Park in a well-lit area away from obstructions.

Be alert and always look around for suspicious people.

Do not leave valuables in plain view. Place items in the trunk.

While driving, lock your doors and leave enough room to make it around other cars if you sense danger.

If you are stopped by a would-be car thief, listen carefully to his demands.

Do not make any sudden movements when confronted.

Do not be confrontational, and do as you are told. Your vehicle is not worth a potentially life-threatening situation.

Although difficult, try to remember as much detail about the encounter as possible, such as words spoken, physical description, clothing, accent, distinguishing scars, marks or tattoos.

Report the incident as soon as possible.

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Q I am curious about what happened to the big road sign for Fremont Avenue on southbound Highway 85. It looks like it got bent back at a 90-degree angle somehow. What could have done that? Caltrans eventually cut off the exit sign, but the pole and bent section of framing are still there, and I wonder about it every time I drive by.

Alan Conant

Mountain View

A You and a zillion others have asked about this. This sign was clobbered several years ago by a trucker who forgot to lower the bed of his truck. Caltrans hopes to have a new overhead sign up early next year.

Q Just wondering about Skyline Boulevard paving status and plans. The new slurry seal is quite rough and still posted at 35 mph, yet it looks like they are starting to paint lines. Oh, I hope it will get smoother than this. This was my favorite cycling route, and now it is off the list.

Steve Meier

A This chip seal project should be completed in a week or so, and hopefully your ride will be smoother.

Q I must say I'm very impressed with your magic.

Bob Rumsey

Saratoga

A My magic? I need to hear more.

Q You helped improve the turn lane on Brokaw Road to Interstate 880 so there weren't constant fender benders. And then as you predicted gas prices dropped dramatically. I paid almost $4.70 a gallon for premium about two months ago, and recently I bought premium for $3.70 a gallon.

Wow.

On top of that, I got my first-ever quotation in the Mercury News in a story you wrote. With that kind of talent you should be buying lottery tickets or betting on the horses.

Bob Rumsey

Saratoga

A Alas, the magic has ended. Someone broke into the apartment of Matt-the-Roadshow-Son in college and swiped his computer and other electronics. Grrrrrr.

Q I saw your articles about Roadshow bumper stickers to get people to use their blinkers. Can you send me two of each? We could use them out here, too.

John Christie

Custer, S.D.

A Be patient. A couple hundred requests have rolled in, and I'm sending out a few a day. Trivia time: For longtime Roadshow readers, John is the guy behind the "Don't Stop Stupid" sign.